Starbucks and Workers' Union Withdraw Lawsuits, Advance Contract Negotiations
Starbucks and its union, representing over 10,000 baristas, have mutually withdrawn lawsuits filed against each other, the company announced. This decision follows the appointment of a mediator to facilitate resumed negotiations between the parties.
Discussions between Starbucks and the union commenced in April but were suspended in December before a final round. The union alleged that the coffee giant had not presented a comprehensive contract proposal.
Friday's resolution brings the two entities closer to a contract agreement. "We continue to strive towards a framework for single-store contracts," stated Starbucks in a press release.
The union has yet to respond to a Reuters request for comment. In December, the union initiated a five-day strike ahead of Christmas, leading to closures of Starbucks stores in major cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle.